MELBOURNE has landed talented utility Jordan Ivey, who joins the Demons ahead of the next AFL Women’s season.
The club secured Ivey in a deal with Geelong on Wednesday, which will also see the departure of forward Jackie Parry and stalwart Shelley Scott.
In addition, Melbourne will gain the 26th selection in the Victorian Draft (national pick No.51) through the exchange.
Ivey, whose versatility is among her biggest strengths, is set to bring a wealth of experience to the Dees, arriving with 33 games to her name.
Making her AFLW debut for Carlton in 2017, she joined Geelong in 2019 for what was the first of her four seasons at Kardinia Park.
The 29-year-old was named vice-captain for the Cats in 2021 and spent the most recent season embracing whatever challenge thrown at her – from locking down key forwards to working on her offensive craft.
Melbourne AFLW list manager Todd Patterson said the move was an exciting one for Ivey and Dees fans alike.
“When the opportunity arose to speak to Jordan, we were really excited to get in front of her as a player we had watched closely over a number of years,” he said.
“Jordan is a versatile left footer who brings leadership experience and an elite mindset.”
Patterson also acknowledged the significant contributions of the departing duo.
Scott has been a big contributor since the competition’s inception, having been selected by the Demons with pick No.40 in the inaugural AFLW Draft.
The 34-year-old has played 49 matches and kicked 26 goals in the years since, while her efforts saw her named co-captain in 2019 and take out the club’s Best and Fairest Award in 2020.
Parry, who expressed her desire to explore other opportunities last month, ran out eight times in 2022, adding to her tally of 22 matches and six goals.
“Both Jackie and Shelley have been strong contributors in our program over a number of years now, and whilst it is sad to see them go, we appreciate that they’ve been given a good opportunity to further their careers,” Patterson said.
“I especially want to pay tribute to what Shelley has contributed since our inaugural year. She departs a champion of this club, having been a Best and Fairest winner and club co-captain.
“The sacrifices she has made travelling back and forth whilst juggling a demanding occupation has set the standard for all the players and staff within our program.”
Ivey joins former Blue Charlotte Wilson in being recruited to the Dees on Wednesday, with AFLW Sign and Trade Period activity to continue through to next week.
